Colombo
Vibrant Capital City - Where Tradition Meets Modernity
Best Time to Visit
Year-round
Duration
1-2 days
Difficulty
Easy
Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling largest city, is a dynamic blend of old and new that offers a great introduction to the country's modern life. The cityscape features elegant colonial buildings and ancient temples juxtaposed with shiny high-rises and busy markets.
Temples and Sacred Sites
A good starting point is the Gangaramaya Temple, an eclectic 19th-century Buddhist temple known for its vast collection of Buddha statues from all over Asia and antiques. The Seema Malakaya Temple, a serene floating shrine designed by Geoffrey Bawa, offers a quiet oasis to escape the city's bustle. The striking red and white Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque in Pettah is an architectural landmark nestled amid chaotic bazaar streets.
Colonial Heritage and Modern Landmarks
Notable attractions include the Independence Memorial Hall, a national monument in a peaceful park, and the famous Galle Face Green – a long oceanfront lawn where locals fly kites and snack on street food while watching the sunset. The eye-catching Lotus Tower, a 350m-tall skyscraper with a lotus-bud design, now dominates the Colombo skyline. In Pettah Market, you can experience bustling local life with shops and vendors selling everything from spices to electronics.
Shopping, Dining and Culture
Colombo offers excellent shopping from modern malls to boutiques for handicrafts and jewelry, especially sapphires and Ceylon tea. The restaurant scene ranges from authentic spicy Sri Lankan curry-and-rice meals to trendy cafes and fine dining. You can sip tea in the grand colonial-era Galle Face Hotel or visit a rooftop bar overlooking the neon-lit city. Colombo truly showcases Sri Lanka's urban energy and cultural mix.
